Characteristics of Rapaniana

The seaside village of Rapaniana lies around 22 km west of the regional town of Chania, near the popular tourist resort of Kolymbari. The village of Rapaniana is set in a picturesque and quiet environment, bordered by a beautiful sandy and pebbly beach at the coast and dominated by the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) towards the inland. The hallmark of Rapaniana is the pretty, yellow-painted church.

Rapaniana is a really small holiday resort, with several small hotels and family apartments, with traditional Greek tavernas, restaurants, cafes and bars nearby. There are also several shops, a pharmacy, a post office and a car rental service. Otherwise, however, the village is quiet and don't expect a lively nightlife. Nightlife enthusiasts should head to one of the neighbouring larger resorts (Agia Marina is a popular one) or straight to the beautiful and bustling town of Chania.

Tavronitis has good transport links, with the main road linking Chania and Kissamos/Kasteli passing directly through the resort. The Cretan motorway also runs close to the village. If you want to liven up your stay in the resort with some excursions or shopping, we recommend renting a car. You can also use the local bus service for travelling to the nearby resorts.

Rapaniana coast and beach

Rapaniana, a pleasant pebble and sandy beach, bears the same name as the village. The beach is not very organized, with only a few sunbeds and umbrellas, but it has won its fans. Thanks to the gradual entrance to the water and the azure sea, families with children and couples looking for peace and privacy come here. There is also a tavern and bar near the beach.

Tips for trips in the surroundings

The village itself and its green and peaceful surroundings invite for romantic walks and longer hikes. Inside the village there is a very interesting contrast between half-ruined old houses and nicely restored churches and chapels. The nearby White Mountains (Lefka Ori) or the Samaria Gorge can also be a nice tip for a hike.

Thanks to the resort's good transport links, you'll be in one of the neighbouring resorts in no time (try Platanias or Agia Marina, for example) or visit the nearby picturesque historic town of Chania, which offers both beautiful historical sights and more entertainment and shopping opportunities. If you want to lounge on a different beach, we recommend Gramvousa, Balos, Falassarna or Elafonisi. Water lovers can also try the Limnoupolis water park near Chania.

Who is the centre suitable for?

We would recommend Rapaniana to those tourists who are looking for peace and relaxation on their holiday. The place is ideal for romantic walks in the picturesque, green surroundings or for contemplation on the local pleasant pebble and sandy beach. Basic tourist services are taken care of here, but don't expect any major entertainment or lively nightlife from the resort. However, with good transport links, the larger resorts can be reached in no time and the location can also be an ideal base for travelling around the western part of Crete.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close resorts: Kolymbari, Maleme, Tavronitis

Most favourite resorts of Crete: Adelianos Kampos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion (Iraklion), Hersonissos, Chania, Ierapetra, Kalamaki (Matala), Malia, Platanias (Chania), Rethymno, Stalis

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.